Use the correct pair of correlative conjunctions
key notes :
1. What are Correlative Conjunctions?
- Correlative conjunctions are pairs of conjunctions that work together to connect words, phrases, or clauses that are of equal importance in a sentence.
- They help to create balance and emphasize the relationship between the connected elements.
2. Common Correlative Conjunctions
Here are some common pairs of correlative conjunctions:
- both/and: Used to join two similar ideas or items.
- Example: “Both the cat and the dog are friendly.”
- either/or: Used to present a choice between two options.
- Example: “You can either have cake or ice cream.”
- neither/nor: Used to indicate that none of the options is true or applicable.
- Example: “Neither the blue shirt nor the red one fits me.”
- not only/but also: Used to emphasize an additional point or idea.
- Example: “She is not only smart but also kind.”
- whether/or: Used to express a choice between two alternatives, often when uncertainty is involved.
- Example: “I don’t know whether to go or stay.”
3. How to Use Correlative Conjunctions
- Balance: Make sure that both parts of the sentence are similar in structure (e.g., two nouns, two verbs).
- Punctuation: Generally, no special punctuation is needed before correlative conjunctions unless the sentence is particularly long or complex.
4. Identifying Correlative Conjunctions
To identify correlative conjunctions in a sentence:
- Look for the Pair: Check if the sentence contains one of the common pairs of correlative conjunctions.
- Check Structure: Ensure that both parts connected by the conjunctions are parallel in form.
Practice Example:
- Sentence: “Not only did he win the race, but also he broke the record.”
- Correlative Conjunction: Not only/but also
5. Examples of Correlative Conjunctions in Sentences
- “Both my sister and my brother play soccer.”
- “Either we go to the movies or stay home.”
- “Neither the teacher nor the students were aware of the change.”
Let’s practice!🖊️